ERIC Number: EJ1247209
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2019
Pages: 19
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: EISSN-1551-0670
EISSN: N/A
An Anchor for the Region: Examining a Regional Comprehensive University's Efforts to Serve its Rural, Appalachian Community
Orphan, Cecilia M.; McClure, Kevin R.
Journal of Research in Rural Education, v35 n9 2019
Recent media reporting and research suggest that regional comprehensive universities (RCUs) and other postsecondary institutions may play an integral role in the welfare of rural regions, yet empirical research on the regional service of rural postsecondary institutions is limited. The purpose of this study was to examine how a single RCU serves its rural, Appalachian region. Guided by case study methods, this study used a theoretical framework consisting of community capitals theory and the anchor institution framework. After analysis of interview, documentary, governmental, and observational data, the case study resulted in a rich description of the RCU's regional service. Our findings demonstrate the RCU's role as an anchor institution as it expended resources to grow, invest in, and leverage rural community capitals. The university's most significant focus as an anchor institution was on leveraging and increasing human capital through investing in education, workforce development, and public health. These findings point to several implications and policy recommendations to better support the anchor institution role RCUs play in rural regions.
Descriptors: Rural Areas, School Community Relationship, Regional Characteristics, Geographic Regions, Universities, Rural Schools, College Role, Human Capital, Investment, Labor Force Development, Public Health, Rural Development, Institutional Mission, Access to Education, Student Centered Learning, Economic Development, Citizen Participation, Culturally Relevant Education, Social Capital, Cultural Capital
Penn State University College of Education, Center on Rural Education and Communities. 310B Rackley Building, University Park, PA 16802. Tel: 814-863-2031; Web site: http://www.jrre.psu.edu/
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Alabama; Georgia; Kentucky; Maryland; Mississippi; New York; North Carolina; Ohio; Pennsylvania; South Carolina; Tennessee; West Virginia; Virginia
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A